The former Birmingham University graduate passed away after a short battle with cancer, her publicist confirmed.

She found fame in the 1980s with her TV series Victoria Wood As Seen On TV and went on to enjoy a hugely successful career.

The actress, singer and songwriter was awarded an CBE in 2008.

Below: In tribute - Victoria Wood's funniest moments

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Close friend and fellow comedienne and actress Julie Walters led the tributes.

Walters said in a statement: “Too heart sore to comment. The loss of her is incalculable.”

Julie Walters and Victoria Wood

In 2014, Smethwick-born Julie, who played Mrs Overall the cleaner in Acorn Antiques, said: “I had an email off Victoria Wood just the other day. She said ‘Let’s meet for a cuppa, I want to talk about a film’.

“Come to think of it, it’s probably nothing to do with me. She probably just wants to ask me a question.”

Among those paying tribute to Wood was the University of Birmingham, from where she graduated with a BA in Drama in 1974.

A spokesperson for the university said: "We are so saddened to hear the sad news about Birmingham alumna Victoria Wood.

"Our thoughts and best wishes are with her family and friends."

Wood appeared on BBC One's That's Life! in 1976, which was her big break.

"She did a one-woman show for Childline where I felt hugely privileged to interview her and she told the story of her life with such wit. She just held us all enchanted for a whole evening," Rantzen recalled.

"I think she is one of our greatest comic writers and performers, but she could also deal with serious issue as well, and she's a huge loss."

Wood's long-term manager and friend, Phil McIntyre, said: "Victoria has been a part of our lives as a friend, devoted mother and national treasure for 30 years. She was always modest, generous and undemanding. A super person and a super and unique talent. There will be an unfillable void left on all levels and we will miss her deeply."

Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted: "Victoria Wood was a national treasure loved by millions. My thoughts are with her family."

Wood's fellow comedians were also quick to pay their respects on social media, with Rory Bremner writing: "No. NO. This is too much. Now lovely, warm, funny, brilliantly talented Victoria Wood has gone. Words, songs, plays, she wrote the lot. So sad."

Jack Dee tweeted: "I feel privileged to have known and worked with the great Victoria Wood. Unique and truly brilliant," while Ricky Gervais wrote: "RIP the brilliant Victoria Wood. So innovative, funny and down to earth. This has not been a good year."